Yokozuna Asashoryu claimed his 25^th Emperor’s Cup as he won the first basho of the year by defeating compatriot Harumafuji. This was his first title since the fall tournament in 2009.

Asashoryu sent Harumafuji sprawling to the dirt surface with an arm throw in Saturday”s final bout at Ryogoku Kokugikan to take his tally to 13-1 and secure the trophy with one day left in the 15-day tournament. Harumafuji fell to 10-4.

Mongolian Hakuho and Estonian Baruto both won but with their score at 11-3 their title hopes were dashed with Asashoryu’s win over Harumafuji.